Glenrock, Wyoming – The town’s beloved Wild West Fall Fest returned Saturday at Glenrock Town Park, delivering a festive autumn celebration and a vital fundraiser for Guardians of the Children, a nonprofit dedicated to safeguarding children from abuse.
Community rallying around a cause
Organized each year by Elevate Glenrock, the festival featured a city‑wide barbecue, live music, vendor booths and a spirited BBQ competition. The event’s highlight was a kids’ BBQ contest won by nine‑year‑old Aria Bartlett, who overcame a recent fall and bruised tailbone to claim first place.
“I slipped on a wet playground and bruised my tailbone, but I didn’t give up,” Bartlett said proudly. Her determination embodied the resilience the festival aims to celebrate and support.
Guardians of the Children’s mission
“We do a couple of fundraisers throughout the year, but this is our biggest one,” said Bull, chapter president of Guardians of the Children. Bull, a familiar sight on his motorcycle around town, explained that the organization’s volunteers—many of whom are bikers—provide protection, advocacy and emotional support to children navigating court cases and recovery.
When a parent contacts the group, a hotline routes the call to a child liaison who verifies the case, checks police and court records, and ensures the child wants assistance. Qualified children become “Little Guardians,” receiving a riding name and a supportive network of vetted adults who can be reached 24 hours a day.
“If a child calls at 1 a.m. saying they’re scared, we answer. If weather permits, we can ride out to their home,” Bull explained, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to rapid, compassionate response.
Local support fuels the effort
Chris Sorenson, director of Elevate Glenrock, noted that the festival’s proceeds now go entirely to Guardians of the Children. “It’s about how we can help others,” Sorenson said. The event’s success reflects Glenrock’s strong community spirit, with residents gathering for the barbecue, enjoying live performances and supporting a cause that protects the town’s most vulnerable.
“Glenrock is a small town with a big heart,” Sorenson added. He highlighted other community gatherings such as the Sheep Herder’s Rendezvous and upcoming chili dinners, underscoring the town’s tradition of coming together for shared purpose.
Looking ahead
Guardians of the Children continues to expand its outreach, relying on volunteers, local businesses and generous donors. The organization’s mission statement calls for recognizing and reacting to child abuse, educating the public, and providing strength and stability to families in crisis.
For more information about Guardians of the Children or to support future events, visit gocnation.org.
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
